KNOWLEDGE BASE

This is a chapter of a book called 'Mammals of the British Isles.' The book introduces beavers' appearance, distribution, ecology and behaviour, as well as their history. Please note, this resource is not open-access.

This article studies a wetland system in Canada to argue that beavers are vital allies for adapting to climate change. Shallow wetlands are vital habitats but face threats from drought and rising temperatures. Beaver presence greatly increased open water area, and had much more impact on water levels than rain or temperature. Even during droughts, wetlands with beavers had 9 times more open water than those without. As the changing climate brings more drought, the authors argue that beavers need more recognition as wetland conservation experts.

The mammal population in the British Isles has changed a lot since the last ice age. 19 species have disappeared and 22 non-native species have been introduced. This has affected the balance of ecosystems, with species like rabbits and red deer becoming very common. Beavers show how reintroductions of animals are possible, but it's hard to predict how they'll affect the ecosystem. This article presents a simulation to suggest that reintroducing wolves to Scotland wouldn't significantly impact the high-density deer populations. Please note, this resource is not open-access.

This book chapter explains how North American beavers' eating habits affect plant diversity in northern corniferous forests. Beavers favour certain plants and help others regrow. They also increase soil moisture which influences the structure of the ecosystem in which plants can grow successfully. Please note, this resource is not open-access.

This article retells a small part of the history of colonisation in the USA's Pacific northwest. Specifically, it recounts the interactions between colonial fur trading companies and indigenous peoples in the region. The article explores the nature of what was exchanged and tensions arising in those relationships. Beavers are a particular source of tension: whilst coveted by colonial trading companies, indigenous groups show no interest in hunting them for exchange. Indigenous practices prior to European contact did not involve eating or hunting beaver. Please note, this resource is not open-access.